Italy exported €161 million worth of packaging and food processing machinery to the United Arab Emirates by July 2025, according to data from the Italian Trade Agency.

Packaging machinery exports totalled €53.7 million, up 58.3% year-on-year, giving Italy a 34.7% market share. Food and beverage processing machinery reached €107.3 million, an 87.5% increase over 2024, securing a 35.4% market share.

Two hundred and fifty-two Italian companies will participate at Gulfood Manufacturing 2025, held at Dubai World Trade Centre from 4–6 November. The Italian Trade Agency, in partnership with UCIMA and the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, will operate an Italian Lounge at the event to connect regional manufacturers, distributors and investors with Italian suppliers.

The UAE's food manufacturing sector is valued at $23.21 billion in 2025 and projected to reach $52.76 billion in the coming years.

"Our Food Processing and Packaging machinery exports to the UAE have grown strongly this year, reflecting the market's trust in Italian quality, precision and sustainability," said Valerio Soldani, Trade Commissioner at the Italian Trade Agency's Dubai office.

Lorenzo Fanara, Ambassador of Italy to the UAE, said Italian technology aligns with the UAE's pursuit of innovation, sustainability and high-performance manufacturing.

Image Courtesy: ITA